The Hobo and the Zen Master

Situation
Situation puzzles (sometimes called lateral thinking puzzles) are ones where you need to ask lots of yes or no questions to figure out what happened in the situation. These are good puzzles for groups where one person knows the puzzle and answers the questions.

A hobo had just been kicked off the train by one of the bosses. As he made his way down a dusty side road, he noticed a saffron robed man sitting next to a campfire apparently deep in thought. A wonderful smelling stew was bubbling in a pot next to him. It had been a full day since the hobo's last meal, so he went over to the man and tapped him on the shoulder.

"I see by your robes that you are some kind of holy man," said the hobo.

The Zen Master turned to the hobo and said, "You speak the truth."

The hobo spoke, "I would sure like to try the stew you have on the campfire there; perhaps if I could tell you something to increase your wisdom, you will agree to share your meal."

The Zen Master turned to the hobo and said, "Please, you are welcome to share my meal because you have already increased my wisdom!"

What had the Zen Master learned from the hobo to increase his wisdom?

Hint

The lesson was taught before the hobo spoke.

Answer

The Zen Master learned that he should find a more private place to meditate if he doesn't want to be interrupted by every vagabond that happens by.